Football Competition Rules for all Grades CONTENTS

Transcription

1 CENTRAL MURRAY FOOTBALL & NETBALL LEAGUE Football Competition Rules for all Grades 2018 CONTENTS 1. Laws of Australian Football 2 2. Consistency 2 3. Community Club Sustainability Program 2 4. Registration of Players and Coaches 2 5. Club Penalties 2 6. Structure of Teams (Reserves, Colts, U14.5 & U12) 3 7. Match Arrangements 3 8. Mercy Rule 4 9. Matches Season - Forfeits Premiership Conditions Modified Rules for Under 12 s and Under 14.5 s Competition Time of Starting Matches Late Starts (Home and Away Matches) Draws in the Finals All Grades Finals Eligibility Protests Permits to Players General Field Penalties Interleague Football Best & Fairest Award Rookie of the Year Age of Umpires Reportable Incidents Reports Resulting from Match Review Order Off Rule Match Conditions Appendix 1 Match Times Appendix 2 Equalization Policy Appendix 3 Overage Policy Appendix 3 - Football Mercy Rule Appendix 4 - Match Review Panel Appendix 5 Team Officials 20 Version: April 2018 Football Competition Rules Page 1

2 1. LAWS OF AUSTRALIAN FOOTBALL All games shall be played in strict accordance with the Laws of Australian Football as adopted by the AFL Vic Country and modified by the League and set out in these By-Laws. 2. CONSISTENCY Where any provision in the AFL Rules is inconsistent with any provision contain in these laws, the provision in the AFL Rules shall prevail to the extent of the inconsistency. 3. COMMUNITY CLUB SUSTAINABILITY PROGRAM To assist in achieving the objectives of the Community Club Sustainability Program, the Central Murray Football & Netball League has adopted both the Player Point System and the Player Payment Rule as advised by AFL Victoria. 3.1 The Player Point System as published by the AFL Community Club Sustainability Program subcommittee (CCSP Committee) shall be adopted by the CMFNL with the following adjustments: If a player transfers within the CMFNL league an additional two (2) point penalty will apply. (This does not include Development Community Player) Prior to the next season the points for each club will be circulated by the Board, on behalf of the Commission. 4. REGISTRATION OF PLAYERS AND COACHES 4.1 Each club shall register with the League the given and family names of each player, with his place of residence, previous to the commencement of the first match that he plays on the appropriate AFL Vic Country or CMFNL form. 4.2 Players in the Colts competition shall be under the age of 18 as at the 1 st of July, in the year of play. Where a club plays a player outside the prescribed age group, premiership points in the games that player has played are to be taken away or in the event of the team having no premiership points a fine of 20 units per game in which the player participates to be imposed on the club, and the club and player dealt with as the Board sees fit. 4.3 All Colts, U14.5 and U12 players shall before registration produce a registration form countersigned by one of his/her parents or guardians. 4.4 Each club shall register with the League, the given and family names of each coach with his place of residence on the appropriate CMFNL form, prior to April 1st of each new season. All coaches must be accredited as per the VCFL rule. If a coach continues in his role having not obtained the necessary accreditation the penalty is to be loss of match points for any matches won by the team whilst the unaccredited coach continues to coach. In the event of no match points being received the league may impose a fine of $200 per game. 5. CLUB PENALTIES 5.1 Penalties for non-compliance with the reasonable administrational expectations of the CMFNL are documented in the Club Excellence Award. (See By Laws) 5.2 Penalty for playing ineligible (and)/or unregistered players and/or omitted players: See VCFL Rules and Regulations: Penalty for playing ineligible (and)/or unregistered players A club that plays a player under a false name, shall be fined 50 units, shall lose the match and the points will be awarded to the opposition. The player will be automatically suspended for two (2) matches. Player and club have the right of appeal to the League s Independent Tribunal. Penalty: 50 units Version: April 2018 Football Competition Rules Page 2

3 5.2.2 A club that has a player, who is unintentionally omitted from a team sheet, shall be fined for every instance. Penalty: 5 units Team sheets are to include any player or club official intending to take part in the game or to be seated in or near (within 3 metres) the coach s box and inside the fence. If an official/spectator is not listed on the team sheet he/she should not be sitting inside the fence near the coach s box. Coaching staff and team officials are to be sighted well back from the boundary line behind the line drawn in front of the coach s box at least 3 metres from the boundary line Attendance at a CMFNL meeting of football coaches, requested club officials and umpire representatives prior to the commencement of the season is compulsory. 5.3 Interchange stewards for Colts, Reserves and Seniors The role of the Interchange Stewards/Umpire Escorts is documented in the appendices. The expectation is that clubs familiarize their Interchange Stewards with their role The Interchange Forms provided by the CMFNL will be correctly followed and completed by an Interchange Steward from each club At the start of every quarter each club s interchange players are to be noted on the Interchange sheet. Where no interchange players are available this is to be noted Interchange stewards are required to sign both completed sheets at the conclusion of each match. (Two signatures on each sheet) 6. STRUCTURE OF TEAMS (RESERVES, COLTS, U14.5 & U12) 6.1 Teams must adhere to the CMFNL Equalization Policy (See Appendices) 6.2 Under 12 s and Under 14.5 s shall consist of 18 players on the field, unless by mutual agreement this number can be expanded to a maximum of 22. (This is to cater for surplus players and some larger grounds) 6.3 Players for Under U14.5 s must be under the age of 15 on the first day of July in the year of play. 6.4 Players for Under 12 must be under the age of 12 on the first day of January in the year of play. Players must be over the age of 9 on the first day of January in the year of play, unless a team has insufficient numbers, in which case players over the age of 8 on the first day of January in the year of play, may play to make the number of players up to 22 once the Club has sought permission from the League and nominated the underage players. 6.5 If a team in the Seniors, Reserves, Colts or U14.5 s does not have 12 registered players available to play, that Team must forfeit the game. The teams can then agree to share players to play a match, but the score will not be recorded. 7. MATCH ARRANGEMENTS 7.1 The Board shall arrange the program of matches for the season. When a match arranged by the Board between two affiliated clubs is fixed for any given date, no other associated club shall take part in a match without first obtaining the consent of the Board. 7.2 Footballs (Seniors, Reserves, Colts) Two new CMFNL branded footballs are to be provided by the home Club in each senior match. Two suitable CMFNL branded footballs in good order and condition are to be provided by the home Club for each Reserve and Colts match. In finals, CMFNL branded footballs will be provided by the League The Central Umpires shall where able, submit the two footballs to the captain of the away team, who shall select the ball to be used; and Version: April 2018 Football Competition Rules Page 3

4 7.2.2 Unless the captains of each team otherwise agree, the football selected by the captain of the away team shall be the football used for the Match. 7.3 Helmets - All 16 and under players in any grade, must wear approved protective helmets for all games. 7.4 Balls (U14.5 & U12) Each home team will provide Footballs in good condition for Matches Mandatory size for Under 14.5 s Size 4 Leather Ball Mandatory size for Under 12 s Size 3 Dimple or Synthetic Ball These sizes will be supplied by the League for play in the Finals. 7.5 The principles underpinning under 12s is to provide a fun, safe and positive experience rather than competition and winning. Consequently U12 s will not play for premiership points. There will be no official ladder and individual best players or goal scorers will not be documented. During the match progress scores can be provided on a scoreboard. 7.6 The Under 14.5 competition is to be played for premiership points. Finals for the Season will be a Final 5 in all grades, determined by match ratio. 8. MERCY RULE 8.1 Mercy Rule (U12 s and U14.5 s): Junior players lose interest in football when the margin between two teams on any one day is excessive. (See Appendices) When the score differential between teams equals or exceeds 60 points prior to threequarter time the Goal Umpires will inform the Field Umpire The field umpire will signal the end of the game to the timekeepers who will blow the siren twice to signal the end of the game The Field Umpire will instruct the Goal Umpires & scoreboard attendants to cease further scoring for the remainder of the match The opposing coaches will have three minutes to even up the sides to the best of their ability, for the betterment of all players from both sides. 8.2 When the Mercy Rule is applied, the match shall continue for the remainder of the allocated time of play. The scoring and recording of goal kickers will cease and the field umpires are to decide their best players irrespective of any team changes. 8.3 The official recorded result for the match shall be: Losing team - the score of losing team, at time the Mercy Rule was applied; Winning Team - the score of the losing team, at the time the Mercy Rule was applied, plus 60 points. 8.4 When the mercy rule is invoked, both coaches MUST then do their best to mix the teams in a sportsmanlike manner to ensure an even contest. If this is not done, at the discretion of the CMFNL Board; The premiership points may be forfeited, and/or The club fined and/or The coaches brought before the Independent Tribunal and charged with a breach of the Code of Conduct. 9. MATCHES SEASON - FORFEITS 9.1 The football season shall commence and terminate respectively on such dates in each year as the Board may determine. 9.2 Each club shall prior to the commencement of each season register its playing ground. 9.3 Should any club on any of the days appointed for the playing of a match (except where such match has been cancelled prior to the date appointed for the match, by written consent of Version: April 2018 Football Competition Rules Page 4

5 the secretaries of the competing clubs and this League) fail to put in an appearance for the purpose of playing the match, such Club shall lose the match and it shall count as a win to the other side. The other side will receive percentage under VCFL regulations. 9.4 In the event of a forfeit occurring before Friday 6pm prior to the scheduled match, the club forfeiting the match must notify the Operations Manager. Failure to do so will result in a 20-unit penalty. 9.5 In the event of a forfeit occurring the forfeiting club should by the following Wednesday after the scheduled match, list the reasons in writing for such a forfeit to the Board. Failure to do so shall result in a 20-unit penalty. 9.6 The Board may deal with a club in the event of a forfeit as it thinks fit and may fine the club up to 50 units for failure to meet its commitments. 9.7 In the event of severe inclement weather, the captains of the competing teams shall decide the fitness of the ground. In the event of their being unable to agree the field umpire/umpires shall decide. 9.8 Should a match be commenced, such a match must not be stopped except on the account of inclement weather and in exceptional circumstances and by the consent of both captains, but in the event of the captains disagreeing, the field umpire shall be constituted the sole referee. 9.9 Should any match be stopped or not commenced on account of inclement weather or exceptional circumstances, the game may be played on a date fixed by the Board A list of the names of players, in alphabetical order, their allotted numbers and their points and other required officials shall be handed to the field umpire before the commencement of the match, such list should be signed by the Team Manager or Secretary or Captain of the competing team. Clubs must also provide opposing teams with a copy at least 10 minutes prior to the stipulated starting time. 10. PREMIERSHIP CONDITIONS 10.1 The Home and away competition shall consist of a fixture of matches as created by the Board. The proposed fixture and the draw will be made available to clubs by the AGM of the preceding season In all matches four points shall be counted for a win, and two points to each team for a draw. There shall be NO points allocated for a bye The finals shall be played as follows: A final five system will operate. The Elimination final will be contested between the fourth and fifth teams. The Qualifying final is played between the second and third teams. The First Semi-final will be played between the winner of the Elimination final and the loser of the Qualifying final. The Second Semi-final will be played between the winner of the Qualifying Final and the team finishing on top of the Premiership ladder after the conclusion of home and away matches. The Preliminary final is played between the winner of the first semi-final and the loser of the second semi-final. The grand final will be played between the winner of the second semi-final and the winner of the preliminary final The Board shall have complete charge, and control all arrangements at all grounds venues on which matches between affiliated clubs are played throughout the season The monies paid at the gate for entry to home and away games shall be the property of the home club. Version: April 2018 Football Competition Rules Page 5

6 10.6 The Board shall determine each year by the February Board meeting the levy to be paid by each club to meet the budgeted expenses of the League The gate takings from the finals shall be collected and all expenses paid by the League Allocation of finals is the prerogative of the Board. An equitable rotation system has been implemented so that each club has the opportunity to host a minor final at their home ground. This rotation system is explained on the CMFNL website. The Board shall call for expressions of interest for the hosting of a particular final or Grand Final but reserves the right to determine the final allocations. All venues on which finals matches are played come under the control of the Board as from the final home and away games and all senior clubs in the finals shall have equal rights to the use of the ground at least one night per week by application to the Board There shall be up to 4 interchange players in the Senior and Reserve, competitions making a total of 22 players on the team sheet. (This assumes that 18 players have taken the field) Where the Equalization Policy has been applied the team can field as many interchange players, as is needed, to complete the total of 22 players on the team sheet In the Colts competition up to 7 interchange players, as is needed, to complete the total of 25 players on the team sheet can be used. If a team wishes to promote an U14 or U12 player, then only 18 players and 4 interchange players to complete the 22 are allowed. 11. MODIFIED RULES FOR UNDER 12 S AND UNDER 14.5 S COMPETITION 11.1 Bouncing Ball Under 12 s: A Player may bounce the ball only once (1), before disposing of it by hand or foot and not touch the ball again until it has been touched by another player. The penalty will be a free kick to the opposition player closest to the incident Bouncing Ball Under 14.5 s: A Player may bounce the ball three times (3) before disposing of it by hand or foot and not touch the ball again until it has been touched by another player. The penalty will be a free kick to the opposition player closest to the incident Distance penalty: A player can be awarded 25 metre advancement towards his or her goals if after a mark or free kick the umpire is of the opinion an opposing player hinders that player. This could include acts such as overstepping the mark, wasting time, and using abusive language and behaviour Out of Bounds: When the ball goes out of bounds from a kick, a kick shall be awarded to the nearest opponent. If in doubt, ball up 5 metres in from boundary. When the ball goes out of bounds off hands or body, a ball up will occur 5 metres from the boundary Kicking off the Ground (Under U14.5 s and Under 12s): A player is not permitted to deliberately kick the ball off the ground Staying in Position: The umpire shall send players back to their positions prior to any ball-up Coaches: The team coach in the Under 12 s and Under U14.5 s is allowed on the playing field to instruct and encourage their own players. A team runner is allowed on the ground to deliver messages but cannot stay on the ground. The team coach shall not come within 15 metres of the play. The Umpire has the power to remove the coach from the playing field if the coach is abusive to the umpire or players Encouragement of Players: The Umpire shall encourage players to move the ball along and to knock the ball out of packs. The Umpire should consider himself more of a field coach and adviser than as an umpire. Version: April 2018 Football Competition Rules Page 6

7 11.9 The centre square rule in Under 12 s and Under U14.5 s shall be observed as far as practicable during home and away matches and strictly observed during Finals The centre line rule will be observed: The centre square rule reads not more than 4 players of either team shall enter the centre square until the ball touches the ground in the act of bouncing or is thrown up by the umpire. A runner or trainer would be deemed to be one of the 4 players if he is in the square at the bounce of the ball During the U14.5 finals and Lightning Premiership the coach is not allowed on the ground Umpires are requested to apply the order off rule as it applies to: Any player who disputes an umpire decision on the field during the match, Any player who uses obscene language or abuses or interferes with an umpire or an official of the League executing his duties Any player who willfully wastes time or is guilty of misconduct. Said player shall be liable to disqualification or to be otherwise dealt with at the discretion of an Independent Tribunal The Central Umpire(s) may order a player from the field for 10 minutes playing time and shall advise an appropriate club official of the length of time involved for any of the above offences The player sent off, shall NOT be replaced by an interchange player. It shall be left to the discretion of the Umpire whether the player sent off is reported. For the second offence during a game, the player MUST be sent off for the duration of the game and MUST NOT be replaced and MUST be reported The Central Umpire(s) are encouraged to report any breaches of the Code of Conduct by players, club officials or spectators. 12. TIME OF STARTING MATCHES 12.1 All Matches Clubs that are unable to meet the scheduled match times will be penalized according to the Club Excellence Award scheme Timekeepers at the completion of the previous match shall sound the bell, siren or gong. All teams are to be on ground at the first siren of the new game, ready to start at the commencement time All matches shall be four quarters. The controlling body may in an emergency reduce such time. Lengths of quarters, changeover times and warm up periods are listed in the Appendices During the time allowed between the first and the second quarters coaches, trainers, selection committee and runner shall be permitted to enter the playing arena At half time the senior players and umpires may exit the ground, all others remain on the ground but the game MUST recommence not later than the designated time after the end of the second quarter; the time keepers to notify the field umpire by sounding the bell, siren or gong when that time has elapsed. The time between the third and fourth quarters coaches, trainers, selection committee and runner shall be permitted to enter the playing area. 13. LATE STARTS (HOME AND AWAY MATCHES) 13.1 Any Colts or Reserve grade match starting more than five minutes later than the starting time, timekeepers shall deduct evenly from the last two quarters that amount of time which will allow the following match to commence at the appointed time. Version: April 2018 Football Competition Rules Page 7

8 13.2 If either club is not ready to commence the match within thirty minutes of each appointed time, the match shall be awarded to the opposing side, unless in each instance a satisfactory reason for the delay is given to the Board, which shall have the power to order that the match be played on a subsequent day or otherwise to finally decide the matter If the umpire is late entering the arena, the teams should be on the ground at the same time as the umpire. Timekeepers should record on the time cards, the following times: warning siren time, team enters the arena and match commences, 14. DRAWS IN THE FINALS ALL GRADES Where the result is tied at the end of the fourth quarter in a finals match the following will occur: After a break of 5 minutes, extra time consisting of two 5-minute halves with time on will be played until a result is achieved. No break is to be taken between halves nor is any coaching to be made. Teams will continue to kick in the same direction as they did in the fourth quarter in the first five-minute extra half and then change direction for the second five minute half. This method will continue until a result is achieved. 15. FINALS ELIGIBILITY A player to be eligible to play for their club in any final must: 15.1 Have played of least (4) four home and away games in the same season for their club; 15.2 Reserves: Any player who plays more than 10 home and away games for their senior team shall not be eligible to play in any finals game with their Reserve team, unless the senior and reserve teams are playing on the same day or in the same final Reserves: To play in any Reserve Grade Final a player must have played at least four (4) home and away games in the Reserves, in that season Definition of playing in a game: A player must be in attendance, in playing attire to take the field and be on the field in the club s designated interchange area for the duration of the match TAC Cup: For the purpose of Finals qualification and player eligibility, the TAC Cup under 18 competition shall be considered the equal of AFLVIC (CMFNL) senior competition and TAC Cup Under 18 matches shall be considered matches of the players senior AFLVIC (CMFNL) team for the purpose of eligibility to play in AFLVIC finals as per AFLVIC regulations, e.g. Fred Smith plays three (3) TAC Cup Under 18 matches in the current season and one CMFNL match for his club, and then he is eligible for CMFNL finals as per CMFNL Rules Playing more than one game on the weekend: If a player plays in an AFL/VFL/TAC game and a CMFNL game on the some weekend, the CMFNL game does not count for finals eligibility purposes For the purposes of finals eligibility, if a player plays in two or more matches for his club on the same week-end (or round) the higher level game will only be counted toward eligibility Protests: In the event of a protest under this rule, the onus of proof shall be upon the player or club protesting Fines: A club playing an ineligible player in a finals game will forfeit the match in the event of it scoring more points than the opposing team. In addition to the sanctions imposed by the Board, the Club will be subject to a fine of up to 50 units. Version: April 2018 Football Competition Rules Page 8

9 16. PROTESTS 16.1 All clubs preferring protests, complaints, charges or disputes in connection with any League match shall forward particulars of the matter to the Operations Manager no later than twelve noon on Tuesday following the match in respect of which such protest, complaint; charge or dispute is preferred, together with a fee of $500. Such fee is to be returned if the protest, charge or dispute is considered not to have been frivolous The Operations Manager shall immediately on such protest, complaint, charge or dispute being lodged, will notify the Secretary of the protested club, who shall furnish a reply within 72 hours of receipt of such notice by him or will notify the Investigation Officer who will inform both clubs of the investigation procedures. The Operations Manager shall thereupon after consultation with the Chairman of the Board, proceed to call a special meeting of the Board to deal with the protest, charge or dispute or call on the League s Investigation Officer to investigate the matter. Upon receipt of the Investigation Officer s report within 21 days, the Board will determine how the matter shall be dealt with If any club, knowing that any player of an opposing club is ineligible to play, does not prior to the match notify the captain of the club with which such player intends to play, of the fact, a protest by such first mentioned club in respect of such player will not be entertained by the League Any player knowing that he is ineligible to play, and who does not notify the captain of his own club shall be liable to disqualification or otherwise as the Board or Tribunal may think fit Clubs preferring complaints against players, officials and umpires under the VCFL Rule for Unbecoming Conduct must follow the prescribed procedures as laid down in the relevant AFLVIC Handbook. 17. PERMITS TO PLAYERS 17.1 Subject as hereinafter mentioned permission of Operations Manager shall be obtained by every person prior to playing for the first time with any affiliated club in a premiership match under the control of this League, and no application for such permission shall be dealt with unless there is produced herewith a clearance where under the By-Laws a clearance is necessary Notwithstanding the above fax clearance or or telephone call (stating that the player has been cleared) being received by the Operations Manager or Clearance Secretary of the League by 6.00p.m. on Friday prior to the commencement of his first match (from the Secretary or Clearance Secretary of the clearing League) shall be acceptable provided that a permit has been granted by the Permits and Umpires Committee. If the clearance is not in the hands of the Operations Manager within 21 days from the date the first said match (in which the player takes part) is played; then the club playing such player shall lose all premiership points in respect of any match the said player takes part and points awarded to opposing team. A player not requiring a clearance may be permitted to play if his registration form is in the hands of the Operations Manager by 6.00p.m. on Friday prior to the commencement of his first match Any player not having played during the previous 24 calendar months shall be free to transfer to the Club of his choice once the Clearance application has been processed by the Operations Manager If any player obtains a clearance, and returns to this League he shall not be regarded as bound to his former club and shall not be required to obtain a clearance from his former club. Version: April 2018 Football Competition Rules Page 9

10 17.5 All regulations that apply to clearances as embodied in the Constitution of AFL Victoria Country shall apply to the Central Murray Football & Netball League Every player desiring a permit or endorsement of his clearance, shall not, after receiving such permit or endorsement, play with any other affiliated club without the sanction of the Board If any player plays with an affiliated club after he has been granted a clearance by that club, a further clearance must be obtained from that club before an application by that player for permission to play with another affiliated club will be dealt with All applications for permits shall be in writing on prescribed forms and shall furnish such particulars as required on League permit forms, and the player desiring a permit shall, if so desired, appear before the Operations Manager and furnish legal documents, such as birth certificates as the Operation Manager so demands Any local area agreements are negotiated annually and clubs will be notified prior to the commencement of any season of these agreements and their conditions. 18. GENERAL FIELD PENALTIES 18.1 On field Penalties for off field offences: A free kick is to be awarded against a player, official and/or spectators in proximity of a coach s box who uses abusive, insulting, threatening or obscene language towards an umpire In all finals matches set penalties for reportable offences will be doubled. That is, if the Operations Manager accepts the club s submission for a set penalty, this penalty will be twice the penalty applied in the home and away games. 19. INTERLEAGUE FOOTBALL Central Murray has a long tradition of participating in interleague football. This level of competition is an important part of defining our identity within the football community. The Interleague Representation Policy (See Appendices) forms part of this Rule Players who fail to train or make themselves unavailable for selection may face a maximum suspension of two (2) matches. This suspension will be in accordance with the Rules of Football Clubs who fail to support interleague football or fail to support their players may face a fine of up to $ Penalties are at the discretion of the Board If a player or club wishes to dispute the decision made by the Board they can appeal the decision to the independent tribunal. If they are subsequently found guilty, the maximum penalty will be imposed along with any other penalties the Independent Tribunal may impose. 20. BEST & FAIREST AWARD 20.1 Any player found guilty by the Independent tribunal on any charge shall be ineligible for the award of CMFNL Best & Fairest during the current season, except where the charge related to time wasting In the event of a tie in the best and fairest voting in any section, two or more awards shall be made. Where the highest vote getter has been ruled ineligible, the second higher vote getter will be declared the winner. In the event that more than one player finishes second on votes, the winner will be decided on a count back based on most three votes; most two votes; and most one votes. Version: April 2018 Football Competition Rules Page 10

11 20.3 Where teams in a scheduled fixture (Reserves, Colts, U14.5) share players for the purpose of equalization, Best & Fairest votes and goals kicked for the opposition team will be counted toward the player s personal Best & Fairest and Goal Kicking awards Any votes or goals gained by a player who is playing for an opposition club during a bye shall not have these votes or goals recorded. 21. ROOKIE OF THE YEAR The Rookie of the year is given annually to a standout young player in the CMFNL who is in their first full year of participation in their club s senior XVIII. Purpose 21.1 The purpose of the Rookie of the Year Award is to recognize and distinguish a new footballer in the senior ranks who has shown outstanding performance in his/her current position as selected by the CMFNL Board. The player has only one opportunity to win the award. Eligibility 21.2 A player must be younger than 20 years of age on 1 January of the award year, 21.3 The nominee has played not more than 10 games (with their senior team) before the beginning of the award year Has played at least 10 games with their senior team in the award year A player who is found guilty by the tribunal of any offence during the season is not eligible to win the award but is still eligible for nomination. Selection Criteria Playing Performance in current CMFNL season, Performance in representative football, in colts or in seniors, Role and playing position(s) at club level, Games played at senior level. Does the nominee show proper consideration for fairness, ethics, respect, and a sense of fairness with peers, competitors and umpires? Selection Method Toward the end of the home & away season each club will be requested for one nominee who satisfies the Rookie of the Year criteria, This nomination will be on a CMFNL Nomination Form, The selection panel shall consist of the CMFNL Board and the Operations Manager. The Board can request further information from any sources in order to assist with their deliberations. The nominations and Rookie of the Year will be announced at the Annual Presentation Night. The Board is not obliged to give reasons for their selection. 22. AGE OF UMPIRES In general the minimum age for umpiring participants at any level is they are 13 years of age in the year they intend to umpire. The CMFNL have a responsibility to its umpires, as well as, the players who may be participating in a game where youth umpires are officiating. By establishing a minimum age limit and specific criteria for umpiring we are meeting our duty of care and OH&S obligations. It is important that youth umpires are not potentially placed in a situation where they could be involved in physical and verbal clashes between mature players If an umpire is younger than the recommended age he or she must be assessed by the CMFNL Operations Manager and Director of Umpiring or their nominees over a two week period. Version: April 2018 Football Competition Rules Page 11

12 22.2 Where appropriate the assessment will determine whether the youth umpire is capable of umpiring at senior or junior level This assessment will evaluate fitness and ability to meet the demands of the specific umpiring discipline For Central, Goal & Boundary Umpires: The capacity to make and give decisions in a tense situation is paramount, For Boundary Umpires: The length and height of throw-ins is sufficient to allow the boundary umpire to quickly remove themselves from within the playing surface and avoid any potential conflict with players In all cases new youth umpires will be mentored and given feedback on a weekly basis. 23. REPORTABLE INCIDENTS 23.1 Umpires shall be provided by the League with two different report sheets: AFL Victoria Country Notice of Report; and the CMFNL Notice of Report, Breach of the Code of Conduct 23.2 They shall enter particulars of any charge or charges they make against players, officials, spectators or Clubs. The Central Umpires are responsible for the management of the reporting process For any on-field incidents the report shall be completed immediately after the match and submitted in the Match Day envelope. A report shall be completed and if a player of each side is reported in relation to the same charge, then each copy shall be signed by the umpire or umpires making the charge The field umpire shall take charge of a copy of all report sheets submitted to him at the completion of a match by boundary and/or goal umpires As soon as practical after the completion of a match in which a player or club report has been made, the field umpire shall hand a copy of every report sheet to the appropriate official of the team of which the reported player is a member. For this purpose, each club shall be responsible for the attendance of an official at the umpires room 15 minutes after the end of each match In the event of no official attending, the field umpire shall be deemed to have complied with the duty imposed on him/her by this Rule Umpires shall lodge, or cause to be lodged, the remaining copy of any report sheets they have completed with the home club secretary for inclusion in the Match Day envelope. 24. REPORTS RESULTING FROM MATCH REVIEW 24.1 The designated authority of the Match Review Panel is documented in the MRP Charter. (See Appendices) 24.2 The Match Review Panel shall have the power to lay a report following the analysis of the official CMFNL video footage No member of the Match Review Panel can be called as a witness, nor attend any Tribunal cases where their recommendations are being heard Where a club wishes to tender a Club or non-official video as evidence, the Club must notify the Operations Manager no later than 9.00am on the scheduled day of the Tribunal hearing. The video must be accompanied by a signed statutory declaration confirming that the footage provided is true and correct and has not been altered in any way (excluding slow motion). Version: April 2018 Football Competition Rules Page 12

13 25. ORDER OFF RULE 25.1 Order-off rules are to operate for all grades. Seniors, Reserves and Colts operate as per AFL Victoria AFL Vic Country Rule 11.0 & AFL Laws of Australian Football Rule A Red card indicates the player or official is ordered off for the remainder of the match and can be replaced after 20 minutes of actual match time A Yellow card indicates the player or official is ordered off for 15 minutes of actual match playing time and cannot be replaced within that time It is the responsibility of the Interchange to ensure that players ordered from the ground under a yellow card, remain off for fifteen minutes of actual playing time and those ordered from the ground under a red card are not replaced for 20 minutes of actual playing time The Interchange Steward must therefore: Identify the umpire s signal (a yellow or red card), which indicates a player has been ordered off; Acknowledge the umpire s decision; Record the relevant amount of actual playing time from the moment the player crosses the interchange area in the space provided on the interchange sheets; and Signal the conclusion of the fifteen or twenty minute penalty 25.6 The onus remains with the clubs to ensure that this procedure operates effectively In the event of more than one player being off at any given time, the onus is on the Club to confer with the interchange stewards to determine which player is eligible to come on Any player ordered off under a red card is not permitted to take any further part in the game In the event a Club believes an opposition player has been replaced early, that Club must call a team count to verify the number of players on the ground and the score at that particular time. The Umpire will record the result of the count on the Umpire s Match Report. Where a Team has more than the permitted number of players on the playing surface, the following shall apply: A field umpire shall award a Free Kick to the captain or acting captain of the opposing team, which shall be taken at the Centre Circle or where play was stopped, whichever is the greater penalty against the offending team A fifty (50) metre penalty shall then be imposed from the position where the Free Kick was awarded; and The Goal Umpires shall write the current scores as at the time of the Head Count on their Score Card The matter will be referred to the League to investigate and ultimately determine the outcome as they see fit - note that the offending team does not lose all points scored in the Match up to the time of the count on match day. 26. MATCH CONDITIONS 26.1 Coaches and Players: All Club coaches, appointed or incumbent, must be notified to CMFNL, with relevant contact and accreditation details, by 30 March each year. AFL Victoria Country Rules & Regulations explain the accreditation criteria for all coaches The non-playing coach of any team (see Modified Rules for U12 s and U14.5 s) is not allowed on the playing arena during the progress of the match except at the quarter intervals. During the progress of the match the non-playing coach, interchange players (other than in warming up) and other officials must be in the restricted area as marked by the coaches box. Version: April 2018 Football Competition Rules Page 13

14 26.3 The team captain of the day shall only be permitted to speak to the Field Umpire at the intervals during the progress of the match (other than if requesting the umpire for a count of players on the playing surface). Any breach of this rule shall be reported by the Umpire and be referred to the League Independent Tribunal Coaches Box: A line 12 metres in length and at least three metres from the boundary line shall be marked parallel to the boundary line in front of each of the coaches boxes. Coaches, runners, interchange players and other game officials must remain within this area when not on the playing surface. Version: April 2018 Football Competition Rules Page 14

15 27. APPENDIX 1 MATCH TIMES Home & Away Match Times CMFNL Match Times Grade Chang e-over time First Siren Players on field Warmup ONE GROUND TEMPLATE Match Start Ball-up Match End Quarter Lengths inc. time on ¼ Time Break Half Time Break ¾ Time Break Time-On Game Length HOURS 2017 Game Length MINUTES Seniors 2 2:27:00 PM 3 2:30:00 PM 4:52:00 PM Yes 2 22 Reserves 2 12:47:00 PM 2 12:49:00 PM 2:25:00 PM No 1 36 Colts 2 11:07:00 AM 2 11:09:00 AM 12:45:00 PM No 1 36 U :50:00 AM 2 9:52:00 AM 11:05:00 AM No 1 13 U12 8:45:00 AM 2 8:47:00 AM 9:48:00 AM No 1 1 One Ground times will be used by mutual agreement between opposing clubs. CMFNL Match Times TWO GROUND TEMPLATE 2017 Grade Chang e-over time First Siren Players on field Warm-up Match Start Ballup Match End Quarter Lengths inc. time on ¼ Time Break Half Time Break ¾ Time Break Time-On Game Length HOURS Game Length MINUTES Seniors 2 2:27:00 PM 3 2:30:00 PM 4:52:00 PM Yes 2 22 Reserves 2 12:47:00 PM 2 12:49:00 PM 2:25:00 PM No 1 36 Colts 2 11:07:00 AM 2 11:09:00 AM 12:45:00 PM No 1 36 U :50:00 AM 2 9:52:00 AM 11:05:00 AM No 1 13 U12 11:15:00 AM 3 11:18:00 AM 12:19:00 PM No 1 1 The Seniors, Reserves, Colts & U14.5's will play on the Main Ground, U12's will play on the Second Oval. Version: April 2018 Football Competition Rules Page 15

16 28. APPENDIX 2 EQUALIZATION POLICY Equalization Policy Rational The CMFNL is committed to ensuring participation in our sport is enjoyable. If players and administrators experience a positive environment then the recruitment and retention of players and the sustainability of our clubs is more effectively achieved. This policy aims to provide football for all grades, other than the senior grade, where insufficient numbers exist prior to a match commencing. Purpose 1. To ensure a game is played according to the CMFNL draw even though the prescribed number of players are not available 2. To encourage player participation in football 3. There are even playing numbers on the field at the commencement of the match and at all times during the game Implementation 1. Opposing teams must have even playing numbers on the field at the commencement of the match and at all times during the game. (Other than injuries or send-offs) 2. If one team has fewer players than the rules require then both teams must have the same number of players on the ground. A Club able to field more than the required players must cooperate with this arrangement and cannot field more than their opposition. 3. Teams will share players and loan players will be granted a Type 1 permit and appropriately entered into footyweb. 4. The team with less than the required numbers cannot have players on the interchange, unless by agreement with the opposing team. 5. All field umpires in control of the match, must be informed prior to the game commencing. 6. Excess players (above the agreed starting number) will form an extended bench. 7. On loan players must appear on the team sheet of the team they represent on the day and be indicated as loan. 8. Loan players are permitted to change teams during the match. 9. Players may be loaned to even up player numbers and give more players game time with fewer players on the bench. 10. Agreements must be made between teams at least 30 minutes prior to the match Version: April 2018 Football Competition Rules Page 16

17 29. APPENDIX 3 OVERAGE POLICY Rationale The physical development of junior netballers and footballers occurs at differing rates and consequently there are some players who are not ready to play their sport with their similar aged peers. Further, the CMFNL has a duty of care to all of its junior players to ensure their safety and they are playing in a competition which approximates their development and current skill level. Purpose To provide a duty of care to young people who are not ready to transition to a higher age group. Encourage the retention of netballers and footballers in a competition with their peers. Provide opportunities for young people with disabilities to play sport. The purpose of this policy is not to provide opportunity for club s to make up numbers in age groups where player numbers are scarce. Implementation Clubs can apply to the Board using the Overage Player Application Form. The application must reach the Operations Manager at least two weeks prior to the next Board meeting where the application will be considered. Up to 5 players per team (football) and 3 players per team (netball) can be registered as overage. Only 3 players (football) and 2 players (netball) can be named on the team sheet per team per match. These players must be designated with OA next to their names on the team sheet. All potential overage players will have their suitability assessed by an independent panel formed by the Board. If required this panel shall be empowered to co-opt appropriate persons to assist with an individual assessment. Overage players must not exceed one full year above the age group on 1 January in the year they claim overage exemption. In some exceptional circumstances, the Board may grant overage status to young people who do not meet these age requirements. Any overage player may play a maximum of three games in the appropriate higher grade. Any complaints or requests for a player standard review are to be made in writing to the Operations Manager. No review request will be considered after 30 June and any review finding must be completed and reported to clubs concerned by 31 July. Under no circumstances are opposition clubs or members to approach any player or official of another club with complaints in any capacity in relation to overage players. Each approved overage player will be continually monitored throughout the season and the independent panel may revoke any approval at any time during the current season. All overage nominations will be circulated to all clubs. It is the discretion of the Board to reject nominations and/or exceptions. A fine of $250 will be applied by the Board for any frivolous overage nomination. Criteria for Overage Selection Any player accepted for overage status will be assessed in the areas outlined below and on their ability to influence the result on any given day. Factors to be taken into account include: 1. Ability to influence a game General Motor Skills Coordination Speed and Agility 2. General Football Skills (Netball Skills) Marking (Catching) Kicking (Passing) Ball Handling 3. Ability to influence others Conduct - Plays in accordance with AFL Victoria Country Rules, NV Rules, CMFNL & Club Codes of Conduct Behaviour - Does not display an aggressive nature towards other players. (There will be a strict zero tolerance of aggressive behaviour) Appeals Any decisions relating to overage nominations or fines for frivolous nominations must be made in writing to the Board within seven days of the Board s decision being communicated to the club. These appeals must state the grounds for the objection and the desired outcome. All appeals will be heard by the Independent Tribunal. Version: April 2018 Football Competition Rules Page 17

18 30. APPENDIX 3 - FOOTBALL MERCY RULE Rationale The CMFNL is committed to encouraging more junior players to maintain their interest in football and increase their longevity in the sport. Purpose Young people lose interest in football when the margin between two teams on any one day is excessive. This is exacerbated when teams are regularly hammered. In junior football we aim to shift the focus toward developing skills and having fun and enjoyment among young footballers and away from the score. Reinforce the concept of sportsmanship; ethical, respectful, polite and fair behaviour while participating. Encourage coaches to be proactive and use alternate strategies with their teams to ensure the Mercy Rule is only implemented as a last resort. Implementation The Mercy Rule is to be used in the U12 s and the U14.5 s. When the score differential between teams equals or exceeds 60 points prior to three-quarter time the Goal Umpires will inform the Field Umpire. The field umpire will signal the end of the game to the timekeepers who will blow the siren twice to signal the end of the game. The Field Umpire will instruct the Goal Umpires & scoreboard attendants to cease further scoring for the remainder of the match. The opposing coaches will have three minutes to even up the sides to the best of their ability, for the betterment of all players from both sides. When the Mercy Rule is applied, the match shall continue for the remainder of the allocated time of play. The scoring and recording of goal kickers will cease and the field umpires are to decide their best players irrespective of any team changes. Official Score The official recorded result for the match shall be: Losing team - the score of the losing team, at time the Mercy Rule was applied; Winning Team - the score of the losing team, at the time the Mercy Rule was applied, plus 60 points. Responsibility of the Coaches When the Mercy rule is invoked, both coaches MUST then do their best to mix the teams in a sportsmanlike manner to ensure an even contest. If this is not done, at the discretion of the CMFNL Board The points may be forfeited, and/or The club fined and/or The coaches brought before the Independent Tribunal and charged with a breach of the Code of Conduct. Coaching Strategies Coaches need to shift their approach when potentially winning by a sizable margin; Repositioning players, rotating less capable players into key positions, more game time to other players, kick and handball with their weaker foot or hand, establishing player zones etc. The Board want coaches to have the mentality where they say: After my team gets 8 or 9 goals up then I affect some changes in my team so that we don t hammer the other team. While scoring remains the objective, it is not score or win at all costs! Summary Regularly hammering a team or being hammered doesn t teach young people how to win or lose, it teaches them there is no enjoyment or fun in football. Version: April 2018 Football Competition Rules Page 18